On June 20, 2017, CMS released a 1,058-page proposed rule to update the payment policies, rates, and quality provisions under the two tracks of the Medicare Quality Payment Program (QPP): the Merit-based Incentive Payment System (MIPS) and Advanced Alternative Payment Models (AAPMs) for 2018. Epstein Becker & Green (EBG) has identified two initial trends. Payment and delivery system reforms are moving ahead, and the administration wants to reduce the regulatory burden under the QPP by offering more exceptions and options for small and rural practices.
CMS will delay required performance in the cost category for the second year in a row. Clinicians would also be allowed to continue use of 2014 Edition Certified Electronic Health Record Technology (CEHRT) rather than be required to upgrade to 2015 Edition technology. CMS is also prioritizing the development of new primary care-focused AAPMs. Read the detailed summary from EBG.
